Tooth and Adaptor Assembly

ABSTRACT

Abstract A tooth and adaptor assembly ( 11 ) for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising an adaptor ( 21 ) adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery. The adaptor ( 21 ) comprising a nose ( 27 ) having an at least one sidewall ( 35 ) incorporating a first channel ( 37 ) and a second channel ( 39 ) angled relative to each other. The assembly ( 11 ) also a tooth ( 41 ) adapted to be received on the adaptor ( 41 ) and releasably secured thereto. The tooth comprises a socket ( 43 ) having sidewalls ( 53 ). At least one sidewall ( 53 ) incorporates a third channel ( 55 ) at an angle complementary to the second channel ( 39 ), such that when assembled the two channels ( 39, 55 ) co-operate to define an enclosure ( 91 ). An upper wall ( 49  of the socket ( 43 ) has at least one aperture ( 57 ) therethrough, and which is aligned with the third channel ( 55 ). The assembly ( 11 ) further comprises at least one locking mechanism ( 71 ) for locking the tooth ( 41 ) to the adaptor ( 21 ). The locking mechanism ( 71 ) having at least one projection ( 77 ) and adapted to be received through the aperture ( 57 ). During assembly the projection ( 77 ) moves inwardly with respect to the locking mechanism ( 71 ) as it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism ( 71 ) moving towards its normal extended position when the projection ( 77 ) aligns with the first channel ( 37 ) wherein the assembly ( 11 ) is in its locked condition.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates particularly to the mining and construction industries and the use of earthmoving and similar machinery used in those industries. More particularly this invention relates to the wear components, namely the replaceable wear teeth on the excavator and the mode in which they are secured thereto.

BACKGROUND ART

Within the mining and construction industries machinery such as excavators and front end loaders are used to move debris for various purposes. This machinery is often used in an extremely abrasive environment resulting in extreme wear on components.

The machinery often has a bucket having several teeth extending from its leading edge. These teeth experience substantial wear and may need to be replaced daily in some environments.

To reduce downtime in replacing the teeth, various configurations have been developed which use an adaptor secured to the bucket of the machine, a tooth releasably retained on the adaptor and a locking mechanism to retain the tooth to the adaptor.

These configurations have been numerous. However, the configurations put forward to date are not without disadvantages. For instance, various configurations utilise a pin as the locking mechanism to secure the tooth to the adaptor. These pins are often exposed to the same environment the tooth is exposed, requiring that they be very secure with respect to the assembly so that they are not accidentally dislodged during use. Typically in order to meet this requirement, a large force is then required to dislodge the pin when the tooth is to be removed. Furthermore, the pins exposure to the environment can result in damage to the pin rendering it even more difficult to dislodge.

Other configurations are complex in shape, often having large areas of metal extending beyond the main body of the tooth. These shapes can be difficult to cast and may result in the build up of stresses within the adaptor or tooth during casting, creating weak points within the components. Also, the extra metal does not always contribute to extending the wear life of the tooth and hence adds unnecessary weight to the assembly.

Also, complementary shapes to those of the tooth also need to be cast in the adaptor, typically in the form of grooves or indents. These grooves and indents are typically used to receive the locking mechanism within, which co-acts with the two components. The cross section of the adaptor must therefore change significantly to accommodate these complimentary shapes, resulting in concentrations of stress during manufacture and service of the component.

Some configurations put forward in the past require a hole passing through the adaptor. This obviously weakens the structure and induces areas of stress within the component.

The reference to the abovementioned prior art is for the purposes of background only and is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the general knowledge.

It is an object of this invention to provide a tooth and adaptor assembly which incorporates a locking mechanism which can be removed from the assembly with minimal force.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising:

-   -   an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component         on earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at one         end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower surface         and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a first channel         extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between         the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it         bisects the first channel;     -   a tooth adapted to be received over the nose of the adaptor, and         releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising         -   a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an             upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls,             -   each sidewall incorporates a third channel extending                 between the upper wall and bottom wall and being at an                 angle complementary to the second channel of the nose,                 such that when assembled, the second channel and third                 channel co-operate to define an enclosure, each sidewall                 also has an inwardly projecting elongate protrusion                 adapted to be slidingly received in the first channel of                 the adaptor nose during assembly, and an inwardly                 projecting tab adjacent the opening and in longitudinal                 alignment with the elongate protrusion, the third                 channel separating the elongate protrusion and tab,             -   the upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each                 aperture aligning with the respective third channel;     -   a locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the         locking mechanism being adapted to be received through the         apertures, each locking mechanism having a projection,         wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over         the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the         upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the upper         surface and lower surface of the nose, the locking mechanism can         then be inserted into the enclosure defined by the second         channel and third channel through the aperture, whereby the         projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly with respect         to the locking mechanism as it enters the enclosure, the locking         mechanism moving towards its normal extended position when the         projection aligns with the first channel wherein the assembly is         in a locked condition.

In contrast with the prior art the present invention provides a configuration which is easy to cast, reducing regions of high stress. Furthermore, the locking mechanism is fully enclosed, protecting it from the abrasive surroundings which could damage the mechanism and make removal extremely difficult.

As the locking mechanism is fully enclosed in the enclosure, there is no chance that the mechanism can be unintentionally dislodged and allow the tooth to be removed from the adaptor, to expose the adaptor to the environment. As the locking mechanism is protected, the forces required to retain the locking mechanism are greatly reduced than prior art configurations, and hence requires minimal force to remove the locking mechanism, enabling quick change out time, reducing the amount of downtime of the machinery.

Owing to the design of the present invention, the entire tooth is used as a wear protection element for the adaptor. Hence there is no additional weight added to the tooth which would not prolong its life.

Also, the shape of the tooth allows for easy casting, reducing areas of increased stress, which may cause failure of the assembly during service. This is true for the tooth but also for the adaptor. The simple shape of the nose of the adaptor represents minimal change to its cross sectional shape and allows the socket of the tooth to be manufactured such that it is snugly received on the nose.

The locking mechanism may comprise two pins.

Each pin may be adapted to be received in the respective aperture in the upper wall of the tooth.

Each pin may comprise a housing and a retaining clip which provides the projection.

The retaining clip may be bonded to a resiliently flexible material.

The resiliently flexible material may be received in a recess of the housing.

The projection may extend beyond the boundary of the housing when the pin is in its normal condition.

The housing may be made of metal.

Preferably, when the tooth and adaptor are in an assembled condition, each pin engages a front surface of the second channel closest to the front of the nose, with a portion of the retaining clip adjacent the projection engaging a rear face of the second channel adjacent either side of the first channel. When assembled, neither the rear surface of the socket, nor the rear part of the tooth adjacent the socket opening engage the adaptor.

Preferably when in an assembled condition each pin does not protrude beyond the upper wall or bottom wall of the tooth.

Preferably the front face of the adaptor nose is rectangular in shape.

Preferably the nose diverges outwardly, in a direction rearward of the front face.

Preferably the upper surface and lower surface of the nose are curved.

Preferably the first channel of the adaptor extends from adjacent a front face of the nose rearwardly.

The first channel may be parallel with the path the tooth travels as the tooth is positioned upon the adaptor.

Preferably the second channel is substantially perpendicular to the first channel.

Preferably the second channel bisects the first channel.

Preferably the second channel has a wider portion adjacent the upper surface which contracts as it approaches the first channel.

Preferably the portion of the second channel above the first channel is wider near the upper surface and has a inwardly raised ramp adjacent the first channel. The additional width of the second channel allows the pin to be easily positioned within the assembly. Once in this position, the fitter only needs to tap the pin, forcing the retaining clip to move inwardly with respect to the housing of the pin as it engages the ramp. Once the projection passes the ramp, the resilient nature of the pin urges the retaining clip outwardly such that the assembly is in the locked condition.

Preferably the tooth is a unitary member and provides the wear member.

Preferably the interior surfaces of the socket complement the surfaces of the nose.

Preferably the upper wall and bottom wall of the tooth have a curved section which protrudes beyond the sidewalls. The curved section adds further wear protection to the adaptor.

Preferably the elongate protrusion extends between the third channel and the rear surface of the socket.

Preferably the third channel is substantially perpendicular to the protrusion.

The protrusion may be parallel with the path the tooth travels as the tooth is positioned upon the adaptor.

Preferably the elongate protrusion extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tooth.

Preferably the third channel has a uniform cross section along its longitudinal axis.

Preferably the tab of the tooth is offset from the third channel. As a result of the offset, a recess may be provided by the first channel of the adaptor when the adaptor is received in the tooth, the recess being defined by a portion of the first channel of the adaptor adjacent the second channel.

Preferably the projection from the pin is releasable retained in the recess to hold the pin in place when the assembly is in an assembled condition. In this state the assembly is in the locked condition.

Preferably the bottom wall of the tooth incorporates two apertures.

In one aspect of the invention each aperture in the bottom wall is aligned with the third channel and is of sufficient size to allow the respective pin to pass through. With this arrangement, the assembly can be disassembled by knocking the pin through the aperture in the bottom wall.

In another aspect of the invention the apertures in the bottom wall are of suitable size such that the pins cannot pass therethrough. To remove each pin, a tool may be inserted through each aperture of the bottom wall to dislodge the pins, allowing the pin to be removed through the apertures in the upper wall.

The present invention further provides a tooth for use on an adaptor of earthmoving machinery, the tooth being adapted to be received over a nose of the adaptor and releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising:

-   -   a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an upper         wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls,         -   each sidewall incorporates a channel extending between the             upper wall and bottom wall, an inwardly projecting elongate             protrusion and an inwardly projecting tab adjacent the             opening and in longitudinal alignment with the elongate             protrusion, the channel extending between the elongate             protrusion and tab,         -   the upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each             aperture aligning with the respective channel;         -   the bottom wall having two apertures in alignment with those             in the upper wall;             wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned             over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of             both the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engage the             nose whereby the adaptor and each channel of the tooth             cooperate to provide an enclosure, a locking mechanism is             then positioned within the enclosure such that a projection             of the locking mechanism is received in a recess provided by             the adaptor, locking the tooth relative to the adaptor.

The present invention further provides a tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising:

-   -   an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component         on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at         one end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower         surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a first channel         extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between         the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it         bisects the first channel;         wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over         the nose of the adaptor such that a surface of a socket of the         tooth engages the nose whereby the second channel of the adaptor         and the tooth co-operate to provide an enclosure, a locking         mechanism is then positioned within the enclosure such that a         projection of the locking mechanism is received in a recess         defined by the first channel, locking the tooth relative to the         adaptor.

The present invention further provides a tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising:

-   -   an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component         on earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at one         end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower surface         and two sidewalls, at least one sidewall having a first channel         extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between         the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it         bisects the first channel;     -   a tooth adapted to be received over the nose of the adaptor, and         releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising         -   a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an             upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls, at least one             sidewall, complementary to the at least one             -   sidewall of the adaptor, incorporates a third channel                 extending between the upper wall and bottom wall and                 being at an angle complementary to the second channel of                 the nose, such that when assembled, the second channel                 and third channel co-operate to define an enclosure,             -   the upper wall having at least one aperture                 therethrough, the at least one aperture aligning with                 the third channel of the sidewall;             -   the at least one sidewall having an inwardly projecting                 elongate protrusion adapted to be slidingly received in                 the first channel of the adaptor nose during assembly,                 and an inwardly projecting tab adjacent the opening and                 in longitudinal alignment with the elongate protrusion,                 the third channel separating the elongate protrusion and                 tab,     -   at least one locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the         adaptor, the locking mechanism being adapted to be received         through the at least one aperture, the at least one locking         mechanism having at least one projection,         wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over         the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the         upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the upper         surface and lower surface of the nose whereby the second channel         of the adaptor is in opposed relation to the third channel of         the tooth, the locking mechanism is then positioned through the         aperture into the enclosure, whereupon the application of force,         the projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly as it         enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moves towards its         normal condition whereby the projection aligns with the first         channel wherein the assembly is in its locked condition.

The present invention further provides a tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising a tooth received on an adaptor, the tooth being locked onto the adaptor by a locking mechanism, whereby the locking mechanism comprises at least one pin received in an enclosure defined by the tooth and the adaptor, the enclosure being such that the at least one pin is protected from the environment and can only be removed via an aperture through which it is received into the enclosure.

The present invention still further provides a tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising:

-   -   an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component         on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at         one end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower         surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a first channel         extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between         the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it         bisects the first channel;     -   a tooth adapted to be received over the nose of the adaptor, and         releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising         -   a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an             upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls,             -   each sidewall incorporates a third channel extending                 between the upper wall and bottom wall and being at an                 angle complementary to the second channel of the nose,                 such that when assembled, the second channel and third                 channel define an enclosure,             -   the upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each                 aperture aligning with the respective third channel on                 each sidewall;             -   each sidewall has an inwardly projecting portion adapted                 to be slidingly received in the first channel of the                 adaptor nose during assembly,     -   a locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the         locking mechanism being adapted to be received through the         apertures, each locking mechanism having a projection,         wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over         the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of the upper         wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the upper surface and         lower surface of the nose whereby the first channel of the         adaptor is in opposed relation to the third channel of the         tooth, the locking mechanism is then positioned through the         aperture into the enclosure, whereupon the application of force,         the projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly with         respect to the locking mechanism as it enters the enclosure, the         locking mechanism moves towards its normal condition when the         projection aligns with the first channel wherein the assembly is         in its locked condition.

Preferably the portion is in the form of a tab adjacent the opening of the socket.

The present invention further provides a tooth for use on an adaptor of earthmoving machinery, the tooth being adapted to be received over a nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising:

-   -   a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an upper         wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls,         -   each sidewall incorporates a channel extending between the             upper wall and bottom wall,         -   the upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each             aperture aligning with the respective channel on an inner             surface of each sidewall;         -   the bottom wall having two apertures in alignment with those             in the upper wall;         -   the inner surface of each sidewall having an inwardly             projecting portion,             wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned             over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of             the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engage the nose             whereby the adaptor and each third channel of the tooth             co-operate to provide an enclosure, a locking mechanism is             then positioned within the enclosure such that a projection             of the locking mechanism is received in a recess defined by             the adaptor, locking the tooth relative to the adaptor.

Preferably the portion is in the form of a tab adjacent the opening of the socket.

The present invention further yet provides a tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising:

-   -   an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component         on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at         one end having an upper surface, a lower surface and two         sidewalls, at least one sidewall having a first channel         extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between         the upper surface and the lower surface such that it bisects the         first channel;     -   a tooth adapted to be received over the nose of the adaptor, and         releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising         -   a socket being defined by an upper wall, a bottom wall and             two sidewalls,             -   at least one sidewall incorporates a third channel                 extending between the upper wall and bottom wall and                 being at an angle complementary to the second channel of                 the nose, such that when assembled, the second channel                 and third channel co-operate to define an enclosure, the                 at least one sidewall also has an inwardly projecting                 protrusion adapted to be slidingly received in the first                 channel of the adaptor nose during assembly,             -   the upper wall having at least one aperture                 therethrough, aligned with the third channel;     -   at least one locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the         adaptor, the locking mechanism being adapted to be received         through the aperture, the at least one locking mechanism having         at least one projection,         wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over         the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the         upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the upper         surface and lower surface of the nose whereby the second channel         of the adaptor is in opposed relation to the third channel, the         locking mechanism can then be inserted into the enclosure         through the aperture, whereby the projection of the locking         mechanism moves inwardly with respect to the locking mechanism         as it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moving towards         its normal extended position when the projection aligns with the         first channel wherein the assembly is locked together.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood by reference to the following description of two embodiments of the invention, as shown in the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a tooth according to a first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross sectional plan view of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional side view of FIG. 1

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional perspective view of FIG. 1 from a rear position;

FIG. 5 is a cross sectional perspective view of FIG. 1 from a forward position;

FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 5 from an elevated position;

FIG. 7 is a view similar to FIG. 4 from a lower position;

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of section A as shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an adaptor according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 9, but only showing the nose section;

FIG. 11 is a cross sectional plan view of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a front view of FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a side view of FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of FIG. 9;

FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of a locking mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of the tooth received on the nose of the adaptor, with the locking mechanism partially inserted in an enclosure;

FIG. 17 is a view similar to FIG. 16 with the locking mechanism positioned further in the enclosure;

FIG. 18 is a view similar to FIG. 16 with the assembly in a locked position.

FIG. 19 is a view similar to FIG. 16 with the locking mechanism passing through a bottom aperture;

FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of a tooth according to a second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 21 is a cross sectional plan view of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of the tooth according to the second embodiment received on the nose of the adaptor, with the locking mechanism partially inserted in an enclosure; and

FIG. 23 is a view similar to FIG. 22 with the assembly in a locked position.

BEST MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Referring to the FIGS. 1 to 19, the invention according to a first embodiment of the invention comprises a tooth and adaptor assembly 11 for use on earthmoving or similar machinery. The assembly 11 comprises an adaptor 21, having a first end 23 adapted to receive a tooth 41, with a locking mechanism 71 being received therein to lock the tooth 41 relative to the adaptor 21.

Shown in FIGS. 9 to 14 is the adaptor 21. The adaptor 21 has a second end 25 adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery (not shown). The configuration of the second end 25 varies according to its particular application.

The adaptor 21 comprises a nose 27 at the first end 23. The nose 27 diverges outwardly in a rearward direction from a front surface 29. The nose 27 comprises an upper surface 31, a lower surface 33, both having a curved contour, and two sidewalls 35.

Each sidewall 35 incorporates a first channel 37 extending longitudinally along the nose 27 rearward from the front surface 29, and a second channel 39 extending between the upper surface 31 of the nose 27 to the lower surface 33 such that it bisects the first channel 37 and is substantially perpendicular thereto.

The portion of the second channel 39 above the first channel 37 comprises a wider portion 41 than the lower part of the second channel 39, and a ramp 40 adjacent the first channel 37, as best shown in FIGS. 10 and 13, for reasons which are explained below.

Shown in FIGS. 1 to 8, is the tooth 41. The tooth 41 is adapted to be received over the nose 27 of the adaptor 21, to be releasably secured thereto. The tooth 41 comprises a socket 43 being defined by an opening 45, a rear surface 47, an upper wall 49, a bottom wall 51 and two sidewalls 53. The shape of the socket 43 complements the surface of the nose 27 to provide a snug fit when the tooth 41 is received on the adaptor 21.

Each sidewall 53 incorporates a third channel 55. The third channel 55 is substantially parallel to the opening 45 such that when assembled, the second channel 39 of the nose 27 and third channel 55 co-operate to define an enclosure 91.

The upper wall 49 has two apertures 57 a therethrough. Each aperture 57 a is in alignment with the respective third channel 55 on each sidewall 53.

The bottom wall 51 also has two apertures 57 b. These apertures 57 b are the same size and in alignment with the two apertures 57 a of the upper wall 49.

Each sidewall 53 also provides an inwardly projecting elongate protrusion 59 adapted to be slidingly received in the first channel 37 of the adaptor nose 27 during assembly of the tooth 41 and adaptor 21. The elongate protrusion 59 extends between the third channel 55 and the rear surface 47 of the socket 43, and is substantially perpendicular to the third channel 55.

The inner surface of each sidewall 53 also provides a tab 61 protruding into the opening 45, and which is in longitudinal alignment with the elongate protrusion 59. The elongate protrusion 59 and tab 61 are separated by the third channel 55, with the tab 61 being offset from the third channel 55, as best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

Referring to FIG. 15, the locking mechanism 71 comprises two pins 73 (only one shown), each being adapted to be received through aperture 57 a in the upper wall 49 of the tooth 41, and into the enclosure 91 during assembly.

Each pin 73 comprises a metal retaining clip 75 providing a projection 77. The retaining clip 75 is bonded to a resiliently flexibly material 79, such as polyurethane.

The resiliently flexible material 79 is received in a recess 81 of a metal housing 83.

When the pin 73 is assembled, the projection 77 extends beyond the boundary of the housing 83 when the pin 73 is in its normal condition.

In use, the adaptor 21 is secured to a component of the earthmoving equipment, such as a bucket, not shown. The adaptor 21 is typically welded to the bucket. The adaptor 21 is protected from substantial wear by the tooth 41, which is replaced as the tooth becomes worn or damage. As this is quite regular it is important to have a tooth 41 which may easily and quickly be removed from the adaptor 21.

Referring to FIGS. 16 to 19, when assembling the tooth 41 to the adaptor 21, the socket 43 of the tooth 41 receives the nose 27 of the adaptor 21 such that the tab 61 and elongate protrusion 59 align with, and are slidingly received in the first channel 37 of the nose 27. The tooth 41 continues to slide along the nose 27 until the internal surfaces of the upper wall 49 and bottom wall 51 of the socket 43 engage the upper surface 31 and lower surface 33 of the nose 27 respectively, at which point the third channel 55 aligns with the second channel 39 to provide an enclosure 91.

Due to the offset of the tab 61 from the third channel 55, when the tooth 41 is received on the adaptor 21, a portion of the first channel 37 provides a recess 93 between the second channel 39 and the tab 61, for reasons which are detailed below.

In order to lock the tooth 41 to the adaptor 21, each pin 73 is placed in the enclosure 91 to be releasably retained therein. Each pin 73 is inserted through each aperture 57 a and passes through the wider portion 41 of the second channel 39 until the projection 77 of the pin 73 engages the ramp 40, as shown in FIG. 17.

In order to move past the ramp 40 a relatively small force is applied to the pin 73. The ramp 40 forces the projection 77 inwardly with respect to the housing 83, allowing the pin 73 to move further along the enclosure 91.

As the projection 77 passes over the ramp, 40, the projection 77 aligns with the recess 93 and is urged outwardly by the resilient nature of the flexible material 79 until the projection 77 is received in the recess 93, as best shown in FIG. 18. In this position the rear surface 85 of each pin 73 engages a wall 38 a of the second channel 39, whilst adjacent portions 78 of the projection 77 engage an opposed wall 38 b to wall 38 a, maintaining the tooth 41 in good fitment relative to the adaptor 21.

When each pin 73 is in position, the bottom and top of the pin 73 do not protrude beyond the upper and lower peripheries of the tooth 41, as best shown in FIG. 18.

When disassembling the tooth from the adaptor, each pin 73 must first be removed. In order to do so, a tool (not shown) is inserted into the apertures 57 a in the upper wall 49. A relatively small force is then applied to the pin 73 to force the projection 77 inwardly to allow the pin to pass through apertures 57 b in the bottom wall 51 of the tooth 41.

FIGS. 20 to 23 show a tooth 141 according to a second embodiment. Like numbering is used on similar components as was used for describing the tooth according to the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the configuration of the locking mechanism 71 and adaptor 21 remain the same as was described in the first embodiment.

Similarly to the first embodiment, the tooth 141 of the second embodiment has two apertures 57 through the upper wall 49. Each aperture 57 is in alignment with the respective third channel 55 on each sidewall 53.

The bottom wall 51 also has two apertures 58. These apertures 58 are smaller in size than the two apertures 57 of the upper wall 49, and are of suitable size such that the locking mechanism 71 is prevented from passing therethrough.

When each pin 73 is in position, the bottom of the pin 73 engages or is adjacent the bottom wall 51 of the tooth 41, whilst the top of the pin 73 is adjacent or substantially flush with the outer surface of the upper wall 49 of the tooth 41, as best shown in FIG. 23.

When disassembling the tooth 141 from the adaptor 21 each pin 73 must first be removed. In order to do so, a tool (not shown) is inserted into the apertures 58 in the bottom wall 51. A relatively small force is then applied to the pin 73 to force the projection 77 inwardly as it passes over the ramp 40. Once each pin 73 is removed, the tooth 141 may easily be removed from the adaptor 21.

The configuration of the present invention protect the pin 73 from the environment and ensures the pins 73 are not knocked out or damaged during service. Due to this configuration, the fit of the pins 73 relative to the tooth and adaptor need not be as robust as if the pins 73 were exposed. Hence the forces required to insert and remove the pins are relatively small when compared to those of other available systems.

Throughout the specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. 

1. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at one end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a first channel extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it bisects the first channel; a tooth adapted to be received over the nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls, each sidewall incorporates a third channel extending between the upper wall and bottom wall and being at an angle complementary to the second channel of the nose, such that when assembled, the second channel and third channel co-operate to define an enclosure, each sidewall also has an inwardly projecting elongate protrusion adapted to be slidingly received in the first channel of the adaptor nose during assembly, and an inwardly projecting tab adjacent the opening and in longitudinal alignment with the elongate protrusion, the third channel separating the elongate protrusion and tab, the upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each aperture aligning with the respective third channel; a locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the locking mechanism being adapted to be received through the apertures, each locking mechanism having a projection, wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the upper surface and lower surface of the nose, the locking mechanism can then be inserted into the enclosure, defined by the second channel and third channel, through the aperture, whereby the projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly with respect to the locking mechanism as it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moving towards its normal extended position when the projection aligns with the first channel wherein the assembly is in a locked condition.
 2. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the locking mechanism comprises two pins.
 3. The assembly according to claim 2 wherein each pin is adapted to be received in the respective aperture in the upper wall of the tooth.
 4. The assembly according to claim 2 wherein each pin comprises a housing and a retaining clip which provides the projection.
 5. The assembly according to claim 4 wherein the retaining clip is bonded to a resiliently flexible material.
 6. The assembly according to claim 5 wherein the resiliently flexible material is received in a recess of the housing.
 7. The assembly according to claim 4 wherein the projection extends beyond the boundary of the housing when the pin is in its normal extended condition.
 8. The assembly according to claim 4 wherein the housing is made from metal.
 9. The assembly according to claim 4 whereby in an assembled condition, each pin engages a front surface of the second channel closest to the front of the nose, with a portion of the retaining clip adjacent the projection engaging a rear face of the second channel adjacent either side of the first channel.
 10. The assembly according to claim 1 whereby in an assembled condition, the rear surface of the socket and the rear part of the tooth adjacent the socket opening do not engage the adaptor.
 11. The assembly according to claim 2 whereby in an assembled condition each pin does not protrude beyond the upper wall or bottom wall of the tooth.
 12. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the front face of the adaptor nose is rectangular in shape.
 13. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the nose diverges outwardly, in a direction rearward of the front face.
 14. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the upper surface and lower surface of the nose are curved.
 15. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the first channel of the adaptor extends from adjacent the front face of the nose rearwardly.
 16. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the first channel is parallel with the path the tooth travels as the tooth is positioned upon the adaptor.
 17. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the second channel is substantially perpendicular to the first channel.
 18. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the second channel bisects the first channel.
 19. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the second channel has a wider portion adjacent the upper surface which contracts as it approaches the first channel.
 20. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the portion of the second channel above the first channel is wider near the upper surface and has an inwardly raised ramp adjacent the first channel.
 21. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the tooth is a unitary member and provides the wear member.
 22. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the interior surfaces of the socket complement the surfaces of the nose.
 23. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the upper wall and bottom wall of the tooth have a curved section which protrudes beyond the sidewalls.
 24. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the elongate protrusion extends between the third channel and the rear surface of the socket.
 25. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the third channel is substantially perpendicular to the protrusion.
 26. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the protrusion is parallel with the path the tooth travels as the tooth is positioned upon the adaptor.
 27. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the elongate protrusion extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tooth.
 28. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the third channel has a uniform cross section along its longitudinal axis.
 29. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the tab of the tooth is offset from the third channel, such that in an assembled condition a recess is provided by the first channel of the adaptor defined by a portion of the first channel of the adaptor adjacent the second channel.
 30. The assembly according to claim 29 wherein the projection from the pin is releasable retained in the recess to hold the pin in place when the assembly is in an assembled condition.
 31. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the bottom wall of the tooth incorporates two apertures.
 32. The assembly according to claim 31 wherein each aperture in the bottom wall is aligned with the third channel and is of sufficient size to allow the respective pin to pass through.
 33. The assembly according to claim 31 wherein each aperture in the bottom wall is of suitable size such that the pins cannot pass therethrough.
 34. A tooth for use on an adaptor of earthmoving machinery, the tooth being adapted to be received over a nose of the adaptor and releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising: a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls, each sidewall incorporates a channel extending between the upper wall and bottom wall, an inwardly projecting elongate protrusion and an inwardly projecting tab adjacent the opening and in longitudinal alignment with the elongate protrusion, the channel extending between the elongate protrusion and tab, the upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each aperture aligning with the respective channel; the bottom wall having two apertures in alignment with those in the upper wall wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engage the nose whereby the adaptor and each channel of the tooth cooperate to provide an enclosure, a locking mechanism is then positioned within the enclosure such that a projection of the locking mechanism is received in a recess provided by the adaptor, locking the tooth relative to the adaptor.
 35. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at one end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a first channel extending longitudinally from the front surface, and a second channel extending between the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it bisects the first channel; wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that a surface of a socket of the tooth engages the nose whereby the second channel of the adaptor and the tooth co-operate to provide an enclosure, a locking mechanism is then positioned within the enclosure such that a projection of the locking mechanism is received in a recess defined by the first channel, locking the tooth relative to the adaptor.
 36. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component on earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at one end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower surface and two sidewalls, at least one sidewall having a first channel extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it bisects the first channel; a tooth adapted to be received over the nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls, at least one sidewall, complementary to the at least one sidewall of the adaptor, incorporates a third channel extending between the upper wall and bottom wall and being at an angle complementary to the second channel of the nose, such that when assembled, the second channel and third channel co-operate to define an enclosure, the upper wall having at least one aperture therethrough, the at least one aperture aligning with the third channel of the sidewall; the at least one sidewall having an inwardly projecting elongate protrusion adapted to be slidingly received in the first channel of the adaptor nose during assembly, and an inwardly projecting tab adjacent the opening and in longitudinal alignment with the elongate protrusion, the third channel separating the elongate protrusion and tab, at least one locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the locking mechanism being adapted to be received through the at least one aperture, the at least one locking mechanism having at least one projection, wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the upper surface and lower surface of the nose whereby the second channel of the adaptor is in opposed relation to the third channel of the tooth, the locking mechanism is then positioned through the aperture into the enclosure, whereupon the application of force, the projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly as it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moves towards its normal condition whereby the projection aligns with the first channel wherein the assembly is in its locked condition.
 37. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising a tooth received on an adaptor, the tooth being locked onto the adaptor by a locking mechanism, whereby the locking mechanism comprises at least one pin in locking engagement with the tooth, and received in an enclosure defined by the tooth and the adaptor, the enclosure being such that the at least one pin is protected from the environment and can only be removed via an aperture in the tooth through which it is received into the enclosure.
 38. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at one end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a first channel extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it bisects the first channel; a tooth adapted to be received over the nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls, each sidewall incorporates a third channel extending between the upper wall and bottom wall and being at an angle complementary to the second channel of the nose, such that when assembled, the second channel and third channel define an enclosure, the upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each aperture aligning with the respective third channel on each sidewall; each sidewall has an inwardly projecting portion adapted to be slidingly received in the first channel of the adaptor nose during assembly, a locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the locking mechanism being adapted to be received through the apertures, each locking mechanism having a projection, wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the upper surface and lower surface of the nose whereby the first channel of the adaptor is in opposed relation to the third channel of the tooth into the enclosure, the locking mechanism is then positioned through the aperture, whereupon the application of force, the projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly with respect to the locking mechanism as it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moves towards its normal condition when the projection aligns with the first channel wherein the assembly is in its locked condition.
 39. The assembly according to claim 38 wherein the portion is in the form of a tab adjacent the opening of the socket.
 40. A tooth for use on an adaptor of earthmoving machinery, the tooth being adapted to be received over a nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising: a socket being defined by an opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls, each sidewall incorporates a channel extending between the upper wall and bottom wall, the upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each aperture aligning with the respective channel on an inner surface of each sidewall; the bottom wall having two apertures in alignment with those in the upper wall; the inner surface of each sidewall having an inwardly projecting portion, wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engage the nose whereby the adaptor and each third channel of the tooth co-operate to provide an enclosure, a locking mechanism is then positioned within the enclosure such that a projection of the locking mechanism is received in a recess defined by the adaptor, locking the tooth relative to the adaptor.
 41. The assembly according to claim 40 wherein the portion is in the form of a tab and is adjacent the opening of the socket.
 42. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at one end having an upper surface, a lower surface and two sidewalls, at least one sidewall having a first channel extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between the upper surface and the lower surface such that it bisects the first channel; a tooth adapted to be received over the nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising a socket being defined by an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls, at least one sidewall incorporates a third channel extending between the upper wall and bottom wall and being at an angle complementary to the second channel of the nose, such that when assembled, the second channel and third channel co-operate to define an enclosure, the at least one sidewall also has an inwardly projecting protrusion adapted to be slidingly received in the first channel of the adaptor nose during assembly, the upper wall having at least one aperture therethrough, aligned with the third channel; at least one locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the locking mechanism being adapted to be received through the aperture, the at least one locking mechanism having at least one projection, wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the upper surface and lower surface of the nose whereby the second channel of the adaptor is in opposed relation to the third channel, the locking mechanism can then be inserted into the enclosure through the aperture, whereby the projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly with respect to the locking mechanism as it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moving towards its normal extended position when the projection aligns with the first channel wherein the assembly is locked together.
 43. (canceled) 